#LifeBooksWriting: Character Inspiration

Firebird was the first book I’ve written in which real-life people inspired most of the characters. Let’s start with Alex Volynsky, whose was influenced by the largest number of actual human beings, beginning with former Philadelphia Flyer Eric Wellwood.
Eric’s career was sadly cut short by a horrifying on-ice accident that became the story behind Firebird. Fortunately, he’s coaching now, just like Alex.

Next we have one that might be all too obvious: The Great 8, Alexander Ovechkin.
He’s big, he’s Russian, he’s one of the greatest hockey players in the world, and he’s named Alex. Physically, though, Alex Volynsky doesn’t resemble him much. (You can check out my Pinterest board for that.)

The third major inspiration was Tyler Seguin.
I don’t find Tyler all that attractive I’M SORRY PLEASE DON’T HURT ME. He’s an inspiration mainly for the party-boy reputation that made him famous (or infamous) in Boston.

Stephanie Hartwell was specifically modeled on two lovely ladies who can rock a blond pixie cut: Carey Mulligan and Michelle Williams.

Brandon Johannson’s inspiration comes from former Flyers goalie and current analyst Brian Boucher.

Oh, look, that’s me with Boosh.

Jacob White is absolutely intended to be a Canadian version of Jake Voracek.

Other people contributed in various ways, and pieces of myself end up in every character, but now you know the major influences behind Firebird‘s cast.

Be sure to grab a copy of Firebird before the sequel releases on July 26!